Thermos “Hot Lunch” Combo

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 3–4 Thermos portions

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 medium carrot, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

250 g mild Italian sausage or ground turkey (or plant-based mince)

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 can (400 g / 14 oz) crushed tomatoes

2 cups (480 ml) chicken or vegetable broth

1 cup (200 g) uncooked short pasta

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

½ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)

¼ teaspoon black pepper

½ cup (120 ml) cream or evaporated milk

1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella or cheddar

1 handful baby spinach, chopped (optional)

Extra hot water for preheating the Thermos

Instructions:

Preheat Thermos with boiling water and prep all vegetables.

Sauté onion and carrot in oil, add garlic, then brown the sausage or turkey.

Stir in tomato paste, then add crushed tomatoes, broth, herbs, salt, and pepper; bring to a gentle boil.

Add uncooked pasta, simmer until just tender and sauce is thick, stirring occasionally.

Stir in cream and grated cheese until smooth and creamy; fold in spinach and heat through.

Empty Thermos, immediately fill with hot pasta, seal tightly, and pack with a spoon.

Nutrition (Calories)Approx. 500–600 calories per Thermos serving, depending on meat, cheese, and cream used. Best for a warm, filling school or work lunch; pair with fruit or salad for balance.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4

Course: Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 500

Notes

Pro Tip:
Preheat the Thermos with boiling water and fill it right away with very hot, slightly thicker-than-normal pasta to keep it piping hot until lunchtime.